Police reinforce victim identification after landslide in Cantzama, Zamora Chinchipe province

Specialized teams from the National Operational Unit of Criminalistics are meticulously working to identify victims of the landslide that struck Cantzama, in the Zamora canton of Zamora Chinchipe province, on July 4, 2026. The Ministry of the Interior confirmed that the National Police have intensified technical assistance operations following the devastating emergency.

The severity of the landslide is evident in the extensive material damage to the Cantzama sector. To ensure speed and scientific rigor in the recovery and identification process, the National Necro-Identification Group, a contingent specialized in technical-scientific information processing, has been activated. This police intervention is crucial for managing the identification of deceased individuals according to established protocols.

Forensic medical specialists are collaborating closely with the criminalistics teams. The National Police have established a dedicated area within local hospitals for external examinations, facilitating the forensic process and ensuring compliance with legal standards and humanitarian protocols for disaster situations. Scientific techniques are guiding every identification, aiding in the management of recovered victims.

According to the Provincial Emergency Operations Committee (COE), the initial report indicated 13 citizens were missing. As of the afternoon of July 6, 2026, ten individuals have been recovered and are undergoing technical identification. Search operations are ongoing, with institutions integrated into the National System continuing their efforts to locate the remaining missing persons.